It is not an exaggeration to say that the new
Indian Constitution is now being put to its most critical test. A situation has arisen such as it was obvious to everyone would sooner or later arise, and to meet which the framers of the Constitution set up a certain definite remedy. This remedy has now been applied and we may judge of its efficacy. To be particular, the Legislative Assembly have twice rejected the Govern- ment's proposal to double the salt tax, in order to fill the gap of some £2,666,000 between expenditure and revenue. The Government was unable to effect further retrenchments, and the Legislative Assembly made no alternative proposal for raising the revenue. Hence Lord Reading considered that the measure was " essential to the interests of British India" within the meaning of the Government of India Act. - Accordingly he used his powers under section 67B of that Act to " certify " the measure—in other words, to declare it law over the head of the Assembly.
